WestJet reports record November load factor of 77.7 per cent

Airline's revenue passenger miles increase 17.9 per cent

CALGARY, Dec. 6 /CNW/ - WestJet today announced November 2010 traffic results with a load factor of 77.7 per cent, up 1.8 points year over year. Revenue passenger miles (RPMs), or traffic, increased 17.9 per cent year over year. Capacity, measured in available seat miles (ASMs), grew 15.3 per cent over the same period.

All of WestJet's capacity increases were absorbed by healthy demand and the airline flew an additional 117,000 guests in the month compared to November last year.

"We are very pleased with our growth and strong load factor," said WestJet President and CEO Gregg Saretsky. "Further, we're encouraged by the strength of bookings from the business market and the demand for WestJet Vacations packages."

In November, WestJet launched new seasonal non-stop service between Toronto and New Orleans, Louisiana; Santa Clara, Cuba; and Grand Cayman. As WestJet Vacations continues to earn the loyalty of Canadians seeking breaks from the Canadian winter, these new sun spot destinations are sure to be popular choices.

    
                        November 2010 traffic results

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                                November 2010      November 2009    Change
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    Load factor                      77.7%              75.9%       1.8 pts.
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    ASMs (billions)                  1.653              1.434        15.3%
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    RPMs (billions)                  1.284              1.089        17.9%
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    -------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                 Year-to-date        Year-to-date
                                     2010                2009       Change
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    Load factor                      79.9%              78.4%       1.5 pts.
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    ASMs (billions)                 17.768             16.021        10.9%
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    RPMs (billions)                 14.195             12.555        13.1%
    -------------------------------------------------------------------------
    

"We're very appreciative to be closing the year with so much positive momentum generated by our 8,000 caring WestJetters. I thank them for their contributions to our record results," concluded Gregg Saretsky.

Caution regarding forward-looking statements

Certain information set forth in this press release, including information regarding WestJet's network expansion, growth plans, year end activity levels and momentum, and corporate vision, contains forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond WestJet's control. These forward-looking statements are based on WestJet's existing strategy and currently available implementation plans, agreements and bookings, but may vary due to factors including, but not limited to, changes in guest demand, competitive environment and general economic conditions. These and additional risk factors are discussed in WestJet's most recent Annual Information Form (AIF) and in other documents WestJet files from time to time with securities regulatory authorities, which are available through the Internet on WestJet's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.

Readers are cautioned that undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements as actual results may vary materially from the forward-looking statements. WestJet does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, except as is required by law.

About WestJet

WestJet is Canada's preferred airline, offering scheduled service throughout its 71-city North American and Caribbean network. Inducted into Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures Hall of Fame and named one of Canada's best employers, WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. WestJet offers increased legroom, leather seats and live seatback television provided by Bell TV on its modern fleet of 91 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 44 aircraft through 2016, WestJet strives to be one of the five most successful international airlines in the world.

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For further information: WestJet Media Relations, 1-888-WJ-4-NEWS (1-888-954-6397), Email: [email protected]; WestJet Investor Relations, 1-877-493-7853, Email: [email protected], Website: www.westjet.com